Harry Clarke, Irish, 1889-1931
Title: The Tinderbox
Medium: Ink, graphite, watercolour, gouache and glazes with bodycolour highlights
Dimensions:
38.5 x 31.6 cm
Credit Line: Heritage Gift, Lochlann and Brenda Quinn, 2008
Object Number: NGI.2008.89.4
DescriptionThe Tinderbox, one of Andersen's earliest fairy tales, published in 1835, has similarities to Aladdin and the Magic Lamp. A soldier acquires a magic tinderbox capable of summoning three powerful dogs to do the owner's bidding. In the tale the soldier is sentenced to death by the King. By striking the tinderbox with fire, he summons the dogs, who grant his wish and save his life. The soldier is shown in a chamber filled with precious coins, which is guarded by a dog with 'eyes as big as teacups'.
ProvenanceA.& M. Shands, USA, by 1994; The Fine Art Society, London; Heritage Gift, Lochlann and Brenda Quinn, 2008
Exhibition HistoryHarry Clarke: Ten Original Illustrations for Hans Christian Andersen's Fairy Tales, The Fine Art Society, London, 2008
Inscriptionon verso (in pencil): 'The Tinderbox'/There sat the dog with/Eyes as big as tea cups/staring at him